Childcare Cook/Classroom Floater

 Essential Functions

Food Program & CACFP Support

• Meal Preparation: Prepare, cook, and serve nutritious, kid-friendly breakfasts, lunches, and snacks according to the planned menu.
• CACFP Compliance: Collaborate with the CACFP Coordinator to maintain accurate daily production records, attendance sheets, and meal count logs.
• Kitchen Hygiene: Maintain a clean, sanitized, and organized kitchen, pantry, and appliances in strict accordance with local health department standards.
• Inventory Control: Monitor food and supply inventory, reporting shortages to the CACFP Coordinator to ensure timely ordering and minimal waste.
• Dietary Restrictions: Coordinate with classroom teachers to safely accommodate children with food allergies or special dietary needs.

Classroom & Teaching Support

• Classroom Floating: Step into early childhood classrooms smoothly to cover teacher breaks, planning time, or absences.
• Child Supervision: Maintain active supervision and ensure the safety, health, and well-being of all children in the room.
• Activity Facilitation: Assist in implementing age-appropriate lesson plans, leading circle time, or guiding recreational play.
• Positive Behavior Management: Utilize positive guidance techniques aligned with YMCA philosophies to encourage social-emotional growth.

YMCA Leadership Competencies (Developing)

• Relationships: Builds rapport and relates well to children, parents, and coworkers.
• Communication: Listens attentively and communicates clearly with the CACFP Coordinator and teaching staff.
• Inclusion: Values worth in everyone and creates an environment where all children feel welcome.
• Flexibility: Adapts quickly to shifting daily priorities between the kitchen and the classroom.

 Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Culinary Arts is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience in commercial/institutional cooking (experience with CACFP rules preferred) OR experience working with children in a licensed care setting.
• Certifications:
  • ServSafe or local Food Handler’s certification (or willingness to obtain within 60 days).
  • CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications (or willingness to obtain within 60 days).
  • 15 hours of continuing education per year 
• Clearances: Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check, fingerprinting, and a medical physical/TB test as required by state licensing.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 40 lbs., stand for extended periods, and easily transition from kitchen tasks to sitting on the floor with children.